Part 6/9:
A critical element in this negotiation is the potential release of hostages. Hamas has publicly committed to this release, but analysts express skepticism given past behavior and the organization's strategic interests. Since Hamas’s initial response came amidst ongoing violence, many worry that the organization might use hostage negotiations as leverage rather than a genuine step towards peace.
Furthermore, the peace plan is predicated on a total agreement—including the release of Palestinian prisoners and, ostensibly, the cessation of hostilities. If Israel perceives the terms as incomplete or unacceptable, especially regarding the full withdrawal, the negotiations could stall indefinitely.